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B.S. Computer Information Systems

Gain the technical knowledge and skills to succeed in the field of computer applications in the business world.

The School of Business' online B.S. in computer information systems offers career opportunities in areas such as programming, system analysis and design, network administration, IT project management, web design and programming, technical support, and IT management.

Computer information systems courses explore:

• Visual Basic
• C/C++
• JAVA
• Information security
• Decision support systems
• Systems analysis and design
• Database concepts and programming
• Network theory and design
• Information technology
• Project management

In addition to the analytical tools and technologies necessary to solve complex business problems, the program emphasizes critical thinking and leadership skills within Saint Leo University's core values and traditions.

The online B.A. in computer information systems is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE), a professional accreditor for business programs in student-centered colleges and universities throughout the world.

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Degree Requirements

General Education Core (48 credits)

• MAT 141 Finite Mathematics 3

  Topics in mathematics that are especially applicable to business such as linear models, mathematics of finance, counting methods, probability, and statistics.

  Prerequisites: MAT 003 or a satisfactory grade on the mathematics placement test.

• ENG 121 Academic Writing I 3

  The techniques of effective writing, logical thinking and intelligent reading, with special emphasis on expository writing.

  Prerequisites: Passing grade in ENG 002 or satisfactory score on the English Placement Test

• ENG 122 Academic Writing II 3

  A continuation of ENG 121. Expository writing based on analytical study of literary genres.

  Prerequisites: ENG 121

• COM 140 Business Computer Skills 3

  Required for all business majors. Students will use commercial software packages in the microcomputer laboratory to gain an advanced understanding of business functions of computers and to develop personal competency in practical applications of microcomputers for business. Provides business students with the specific knowledge and capabilities in various computer skills necessary to be effective in both business classes and the business world. Course fee may apply.

• FAS 101 The Integrated Arts 3

  This is an interdisciplinary course that introduces students to visual, written, and musical works of art designed to increase the student's understanding and aesthetic pleasure as well as to develop acquaintance with techniques and terminology in the arts. Regular classroom lectures/discussions may be complemented by live or virtual performances and exhibits as appropriate to the course format to enhance the student's experience of the arts.

• Aesthetic Perspective Options : (3 Credits)3

  • ART 123 Art Appreciation

    Basic terms, theories and techniques of the artist; major art movements; media in the visual arts.

    Prerequisites: FAS 101

  • ENG 202 Creative Writing

    Introduction to the creative process, analyzing creative writing in various genres, and the study of master writers. Offered annually.

    Prerequisites: ENG 122 and FAS 101

  • FAS 123 Introduction to Film

    A survey course treating film as a modern art form. Includes thematic content and aesthetic problems that face film theoreticians.

    Prerequisites: FAS 101

  • FAS 125 Introduction to Theatre

    Investigates the imaginative processes involved in creating theatre. Emphasizes the dramatic event, dramatic literature in performance. Examines the roles of audience, actor, playwright, director, and others who collaborate to create the theater experience.

    Prerequisites: FAS 101

  • MUS 123 Introduction to Music

    Develops an understanding of, and appreciation for, the most important composers and styles from music history and develops critical and intelligent listening skills.

    Prerequisites: FAS 101

• Core English Options : (3 Credits)3

  • ENG 226 Survey of World Literature II

    Designed to introduce non-English majors to the world literature in translation from the 18th century through the 20th century. Continued emphasis on literary devices writers use and on expository writing based on analytical study of the literature of the course.

    Prerequisites: ENG 122

  • ENG 311 Survey of Major Writers of the 20th Century

    A study for non-English majors of the most significant and influential movements of the twentieth century as those movements have shaped the course of human experience. Provides an opportunity for students to discuss and analyze a broad range of writers from several countries, drawing on cultural and ethnic issues particularly relevant to those writers.

    Prerequisites: ENG 122

• SSC 102 The Global Perspective 3

  A survey of various global issues arising in the world since World War II. The course combines the disciplines of history, political science, and economics. Emphasis will be placed on the interaction of the superpowers during the Cold War, the post-colonial emergence of the Third World, the ascendancy of regional and international economic and political institutions, the ambiguous blessing of technological innovation, and the reshaping of contemporary Europe.

• ECO 201 Principles of Macroeconomics 3

  An introduction to the study of the determination of income, output, employment and prices in the U.S. economy. Emphasis on fundamental economic concepts, gross domestic product and its components, monetary and fiscal policy, and contemporary macroeconomic issues.

  Prerequisites: SSC 102

• SSC 101 The Human Behavior Perspective 3

  An interdisciplinary course designed to provide students with the opportunity to consider the many ways in which human beings function as individuals, as members of larger groups and demographic segments, and as members of a particular culture. This course explores the disciplines of sociology, psychology, and anthropology within the framework of the scientific method, social constructivism, ethics, and values. Value systems, including the core values of Saint Leo University, and the ways in which they affect social structure are also explored.

• PHI 101 The Quest for Wisdom 3

  The course examines human beings as present to themselves, as having a narrative self-understanding, and as being on a quest for meaning and orientation in life. Some of the topics are: the mystery of existence; thinking and prejudice; the good, conscience, and the power of choice; the state and the dignity of the person; the problem of materialism and scientism; and the place of imagination in articulating life's meaning.

• Human Behavior Perspective Options : (3 Credits)3

  • ANT 101 Introduction to Anthropology

    An examination of human, physical, and cultural development using evidence from archaeology, paleontology, genetics, ecology, cultural anthropology, and linguistics with emphasis on the historical, structural, and symbolic aspects of human culture.

    Prerequisites: SSC 101

  • PSY 121 Introduction to Psychology

    A survey of the major areas in psychology. Principal topics covered are: physiological bases of behavior, personality, mental disorders and treatment, social influences and other basic issues. The course introduces students to the broad spectrum of theories used in understanding human behavior.

    Prerequisites: SSC 101

  • SOC 121 Introduction to Sociology

    A survey of the major issues and ideas in sociology, including basic concepts and theories, as well as an examination of major social institutions, the dynamics and processes of social interaction, and the structure and organization of social groups.

    Prerequisites: SSC 101

• Core Religion Options : (3 Credits)3

  • REL 123 Foundations of Christian Faith

    This course involves an introduction to the field of theology as an academic discipline with a body of writing, methods, and interpretations. It is concerned with how to successfully study theology, including basic library research methodology and critical thinking. Students will build a basic understanding of the whole of theology through an introduction of its parts: Old Testament and New Testament Literature, Who Is Jesus?, What Is the Church?, Grace and the Sacraments, Christian Morality, Social Justice, Judaism and the Church, the Islamic Religion and the Church, and Catholic Theology in a Global Context.

    Prerequisites: PHI 101

  • REL 124 Introduction to the Old Testament

    A basic introduction to the literature and theology of the Jewish Scriptures.

    Prerequisites: PHI 101

  • REL 201 Introduction to the New Testament

    A basic introduction to the literature and theology of the New Testament, including exposure to critical methods such as form and redaction criticisms.

    Prerequisites: PHI 101

  • REL 223 Religions of the World I: Western Religions

    A study of Western religions, including religions of non-literate societies and ancient religions, Judaism, Christianity and Islam.

    Prerequisites: PHI 101

• Any 300 or 400 level Religion course (3 credits)

• SCI 101 Integrated Physical Science 3

  This course is designed to provide integrated knowledge and basic understanding of the major concepts, theoretical perspectives, historical trends, and empirical findings of the physical sciences, including physics, chemistry, astronomy, geology, oceanography, atmospheric sciences, and earth sciences. Major integrated themes include the nature and history of the universe, the solar system, and the Earth; the four forces; the ultimate structure and development of matter; types and nature of chemical bonding; plate tectonics; the rock cycle; biogeochemical cycles; oceanic and atmospheric circulation; global climate change; the unified nature of the laws and forces of the universe; the scientific world view; the scientific method; and the major differences between the scientific way of knowing and other ways of knowing. Emphasis is placed on oral and written scientific literacy through effective interpretation and communication of written, quantitative, graphic, and tabular scientific information.

• SCI 102 Integrated Life Science 3

  This course is designed to introduce non-science majors to the concepts and practical applications of the life sciences so that students will be informed citizens in an increasingly science and technology based society. Specific themes focused on will include cell structure and function, cell reproduction, DNA, genetic engineering, evolution, the origins of life, and the environment. Ethical and moral considerations will be discussed where appropriate. There will be several demonstrations and/or student experiments during the semester. This is the second of two integrated science courses required of all non-science majors. This course requires substantial writing and reading.

  Prerequisites: Recommended Prerequisites: SCI 101 strongly recommended

Business Core (27 credits)

• ACC 201 Principles of Accounting I 3

  An introduction to the preparation and use of accounting information found in financial statements. Topics include the analysis of transactions, and accounting for assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses. Interpretations of financial statements for measuring performance and making business decisions are emphasized.

  Prerequisites: Recommended Prerequisites: MAT 141 and COM 140

• ACC 202 Principles of Accounting II 3

  An introduction to cost accounting concepts, budgeting, cost-volume-profit analysis, and managerial decisions.

  Prerequisites: ACC 201

• ECO 202 Principles of Microeconomics 3

  An introduction to the economic analysis of the market mechanism. Emphasis on supply and demand, elasticity, cost analysis, market structures, externalities, and contemporary microeconomic issues.

• GBA 231 Business Law I 3

  The U.S. legal system (constitutional framework), the judicial system, the administrative agency system, the legal theory of the organization (agency law, forms of organization), an organization's legal obligations (torts, contracts, common law, and the Uniform Commercial Code), and public law (employment, securities, antitrust, consumer and environmental protection) are reviewed.

  Prerequisites: ENG 122

• MBA 550 Decision Support Systems * 3

  With better computer data analysis and the application of statistical concepts, decision making can be enhanced. This course provides the knowledge and skills to create these applications. Course fee may apply.

  Prerequisites: MBA ORI and undergraduate course in microcomputer applications or equivalent skills. Basic literacy regarding Windows and Microsoft Office (particularly Excel) is expected.

• MAT 201 Introduction to Statistics 3

  Development of the fundamental statistical methods, including graphs, measures of central tendency, and variation. Inferential statistics includes the basic concepts of probability, estimation, hypothesis testing, sampling techniques, regression analysis and correlation, and other analyses of data. Use of statistical software packages. Applications to business, social science, education, and environmental science.

  Prerequisites: MAT 141 or a higher-level mathematics course

• MGT 301 Principles of Management 3

  An introductory course in management as a discipline and a process. Major topics include the evolution and scope of management, decision-making, planning and strategy, organizing and staffing, leading and control, and change. The importance of management in the global environment and ethical considerations of management decisions also are included.

  Prerequisites: ENG 122 and second-semester sophomore standing required

• MGT 325 Finance for Managers 3

  An introduction to the principles of corporate financial management. The principles apply also to other forms of business, governments, and non-profit organizations. The time value of money is emphasized in investments of real or financial assets. Planning for current assets and liabilities and long-range capital is covered. Risk and expected values (statistics) are used in the planning and assessments of investments. Also, the knowledge of different kinds of markets is described along with some financial theories.

  Prerequisites: ACC 202

• MKT 301 Principles of Marketing 3

  A basic course in the marketing of goods, services, and ideas including planning, pricing, promotion and distribution. Attention is directed to international marketing, marketing ethics, and managing the marketing function.

  Prerequisites: Prerequisites: ECO 201 and ENG 122 and second-semester sophomore standing required

Computer & Information Systems Core (36 credits)

• One of VB or C++ : (3 Credits)3

  • COM 205 Introduction to Visual Basic

    The use of BASIC programming language for information processing and problem solving. Students use algorithms and computer logic to translate data into information through structured design, coding, testing, and program debugging. Course fee may apply. Offered as needed.

    Prerequisites: COM 203

  • COM 207 Programming in C/C++

    The use of C/C++ programming language for information processing and problem solving. Students use algorithms and computer logic to translate data into information through structured design, coding, testing, and program debugging. Course fee may apply.

    Prerequisites: COM 203

• One of VB or Java : (3 Credits)3

  • COM 208 Programming in Visual Basic

    Visual Basic programming language is used in the development of many computer applications, particularly from the Microsoft Corporation. The user can create windows and many Microsoft application features with this language. Course fee may apply.

    Prerequisites: COM 205, COM 207 or equivalent

  • COM 209 Programming in JAVA

    JAVA language is widely adopted as the Internet development language. This course will introduce the student to JAVA programming and developing applications for the Internet. Course fee may apply. Offered as needed.

    Prerequisites: COM 205 or COM 207 or equivalent

• COM 203 Computer Systems 3

  An introduction to the field of computer information systems including a review of the entire field and its application in the business world. Included are information management principles and systems, number systems and how they are used in computers, the relationship among the many parts of the computer and how they interact, and the basics of networks and operating systems.

  Prerequisites: COM 140

• COM 308 Introduction to Information Security 3

  The advent of global networks has provided communication capabilities for businesses and individuals unparalleled in the history of the world. Attacks on the system that deny service, destroy systems, and purloin information through the use of worms, viruses, and other criminal attacks make it imperative that information security be a significant part of any business plan and that individuals working in that or allied fields become knowledgeable in the principles of information security. This course provides an introduction to the field of information security that lays a necessary foundation for later courses.

  Prerequisites: COM 203

• COM 320 Systems Analysis and Design 3

  Students will be provided with actual systems to design, implement and document the system development cycle. The cycle includes an analysis of current systems, logical and physical systems design, program development, testing, implementation, maintenance, and documentation. Course fee may apply.

  Prerequisites: COM 203

• COM 340 Introduction to Internet Applications 3

  An introduction to Internet applications theory, the tools used to develop Internet applications and the development of web design, electronic commerce, and server administration.

  Prerequisites: COM 203 and a programming language course

• COM 410 Database Concepts and Programming 3

  The use of a database management system to provide the software and database necessary to upgrade a system. Database structures, applications, network, relational and hierarchical data models, application program development, query systems, file security, and the role of the database administrator will be studied. Course fee may apply.

  Prerequisites: COM 320

• COM 415 Network Theory and Design 3

  An introduction of the theory, design and application of networks. The course will include the creation and operation of an actual network.

  Prerequisites: COM 203

• COM 424 Information Technology and Resource Management 3

  The rapidly changing field of information technology requires a solid knowledge foundation. This course reviews contemporary information technology management and the relevant issues of effective management of the information service activities.

  Prerequisites: COM 203 and MGT 301

• COM 498 Information Resource Management (Capstone Course) 3

  A capstone course emphasizing the integration of information and environmental systems to support broad strategic planning decisions.

  Prerequisites: COM 315, COM 410, COM 415, MGT 301, MKT 301 and senior standing required

• Two upper-level (300- or 400-level) business courses ** (6 credits)

Electives (9 Credits)

Total Semester Credits 120

1. * Substitute for GBA 334 in the CBK.
2. ** COM 333 is a recommended elective for CIS majors.